S.A.D.D. is an acronym for Students Against Destructive Decisions. In September of 1996, the S.A.D.D. National Office changed its name from Students Against Driving Drunk to destructive decisions.

According to the National S.A.D.D. Chapter Fact Sheet, the Center for Health Statistics in a 1995 report stated that "the six leading causes of death among young people (ages 15-24) are: 1. Accidents (including automobile crashes) 2. Homicide 3. Suicide 4. Cancer 5. Heart Diseases 6. HIV." These causes have helped the importance of the name change.

The starting of S.A.D.D. can be traced back to 1981, when a small high school in Wayland, Massachusetts experienced a tragic loss. Two well-known high school students died within a week of each other in alcohol-related crashes. These needless deaths started a movement in the heart of hockey coach, Robert Anastas, who is also the health director for Wayland High School and his students. Mr. Anastas knew the dangers of drinking and driving and tried to develop a way for students to stop the number one killer of teenagers in the nation.

The idea was to form a group that was lead by students for students. They organized a group of students, called themselves Students Against Driving Drunk, and invited juniors and seniors to join. They developed a "Contract for Life," to include parent participation and support. The contract did not condone under-age drinking, but promised a way for unconditional help during adolescent decisions.

Enthusiasm for the program increased, the school suggested a S.A.D.D. day, and seeked a higher level of assistance. They contacted Mr. Edward King, Massachusetts Governor, and asked him to be honorary chairman of S.A.D.D. to launch the program on a much needed state level. Governor King accepted and S.A.D.D. became a larger organization.